You should use a digital multimeter to measure the value of the 5V supply at the Fan Controller power connector and enter the measured value in the Program Settings dialog box. The microcontroller uses the +5V supply as its reference when measuring the output of the LM335Z temperature sensors and any variation from 5V will cause a large inaccuracy in the reported temperature. Using the Program Settings dialog box you can enter the measured value of the +5V supply in your computer.This will open a dialog box where you can set the full scale for the bar graphs, the voltage reading for the +5V supply and set the program to minimise to the system tray. A new menu item (Program Settings.) has been added under the Setup menu.The significant differences from the first version (v1.0) are: You can access an electronic copy of the issue online (using the above link) for about the cost of purchasing a printed copy - so it is a good deal.Ī new version (v1.1) of the Windows desktop application is available. This page also provides an alternative description of the project but the magazine article goes into much more detail. This web page provides updates and errata on the project. The Intelligent Fan Controller was featured in the July 2010 issue Silicon Chip magazine. Cheap - The cost for all the parts is about $48.It will run independently without the Windows software (once it has been configured).USB interface and Windows software for setup and monitoring.Control up to eight fans and measure up to four temperatures.Configurable speed control based on temperatures measured inside your computer.After installing this device, my computer is now so quiet that I can hardly tell that it is running - and that is a blessed relief. when your computer is running hot.Īnyone with a noisy computer, especially a Media Centre system in the lounge room, will benefit from this project.

When it is cool the fans will run slowly and they will only speed up when needed. It does this by varying their speed based on temperatures measured inside the case. The Intelligent Fan Controller is designed to control the noise generated by the fans inside your computer.

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Case fan controller